Winter Home Improvement & Real Estate Feature

John McGrath – Buying and selling in a cooling market

Weekends have always been a busy time for real estate agents, with auctions as well as open homes for prospective buyers and tenants. At the same time, we have been experiencing not only a traditionally quieter Winter season but also a market correction and auction clearance rate declines, which have impacted consumer sentiment.

But there’s a reason why I always encourage buyers and homeowners not to be discouraged by market corrections, and I’ll repeat it again now: at some point in the cycle, property inevitably rises and falls, so don’t be surprised or scared by these market dips. As I look at our company’s average days on market, which is one of our key indicators for performance last year at this time, it was 30 days on market for auctions and that is quite encouraging. This is because

two weeks of the campaign. Whereas our private treaty sales have blown out from around 42 this time last year to now 55 this year. So overall, the auction picture isn’t all bad, with this process still performing well and delivering good results.

Property sales results as a whole at present are

the last few years, and as usual in real estate, sales data and statistics can change dramatically depending on where you live. A good example of this is our mid-size capital cities – Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide – which remain at their

growth. For now, sellers should make sure

real estate outlook, and not the one of even a few months ago. You might see fewer people through open homes or at auctions but buyers who are active at this time of year are usually genuine, committed purchasers ready to make

are more important than ever. At the same time, and as I told respected business commentator, Peter Switzer, earlier this month, a lot of people especially investors, are sitting on the sidelines at the moment wondering what the adjusting market – and especially the recent Federal Budget investment policies – will mean for their property future.

If you’re thinking about buying, the current of more nervous purchasers, and to possibly secure a purchase at a more favourable price.

Another incentive for buyers is that Spring is just around the corner and is traditionally the busiest time of the real estate year. As I mentioned to

main winners of the Federal Budget changes. In addition, while I think the current correction period will be with us for six to nine months, or even a year, we’re already three or four months into this new period, and it should stabilise early next year. Finally, while we may see another national cash rate increase this year, Westpac is the only Big Four lender to predict an uptick in 2026. Both buyers and sellers should remember that regardless of the current state of play, there is no such thing as a perfect time to purchase or market a property. There is also no ideal time to pick the bottom of a property cycle. What’s important, and what won’t change, is that property will always be a great asset.

Agents

Investing in the Sunshine Coast: Why Our Region Is Outperforming the Rest of Queensland

Many of us have seen the headlines circulating about the property market and the new tax reforms, now passed through parliament. While there is genuine conversation across Queensland about how these

Industry commentators have pointed to falling rental listings in May as some investors moved to sell ahead of the budget changes, with reports suggesting almost 1,000 landlords exited the Queensland market that month alone, while only around 660 new investors stepped in to replace

1 July 2027 for established properties, some experts believe this could place further upward pressure on rents across the state.

operates as its own micro-market, and the fundamentals here continue

The most compelling evidence came through just last month. The latest most popular destination in the country for people leaving capital cities, accounting for close to nine per cent of all net migration nationally. This isn’t a new phenomenon either. The trend has held remarkably

capital city movers continuing to outnumber those heading the other way by close to 30 per cent. People aren’t just visiting. They’re making considered, long-term decisions to build their lives here.

That population growth is being matched by a genuine supply pipeline.

Major developments like Aura, already Australia’s largest master planned community in single ownership, continue to deliver new

housing at scale, with the precinct expected to support around 50,000 residents and 20,000 jobs once complete. Just south, Beerwah East

future growth corridors in the state, both positioned along The Wave rail Airport by mid-2027. For investors, this kind of long-term infrastructure are heading well before the rest of the market catches up.

This is exactly the kind of environment where strong, long-term investment outcomes are made. Population growth, employment and transport infrastructure are the conditions that support genuine capital growth over time, not headlines or short-term sentiment.

environment is having a proactive asset management plan behind them, paired with experienced local support and open, honest communication. That’s the part of the equation within your control, and it’s the part we take seriously every day.

If you’d like to talk through what any of this means for your property or portfolio, our team is always happy to have that conversation.

By Deb Fleming, New Client Consultant & Asset Management Expert

0488 771 626

WINTER REAL ESTATE & HOME IMPROVEMENT FEATURE

Why it pays to review your home loan

WITH the local property market continuing to evolve, now is an ideal time for homeowners and buyers to review their finance options. Interest rates, lender policies and personal circumstances all change over time, so a home loan that suited you a few years ago may no longer be the best fit.

Whether you’re buying your first home, upgrading, investing or simply looking to reduce your repayments, taking the time to compare your options can make a real difference. A review may uncover opportunities to save money, access equity for renovations or investments, or restructure your loan to better suit your

current lifestyle and future goals.

As a local mortgage broker, I work with a wide range of lenders to help clients find finance solutions that match their individual needs. Every borrower is different, and there’s no one-size-fits-all approach to choosing the right home loan.

Having worked with families across the Glass House Mountains, Maleny and the wider Sunshine Coast, I understand the importance of local knowledge and personalised service. If you’re considering buying, refinancing or simply want to know whether your current loan is still

Bordering the Glass House Mountains National Park, the property features approximately 7.5 hectares of cleared, productive land, complemented by natural vegetated gullies that provide seclusion and a stunning natural setting. A private homesite at the rear enjoys spectacular views of Mount Tibrogargan, Mount Coonowrin, Mount Beerwah and Mount Ngungun.

A rare mountain estate

SET against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Tibrogargan, Tibro Station is a rare 12.37-hectare property offering privacy, productivity and outstanding lifestyle potential.

includes two dams, a bore, farm well, modern irrigation and fertigation systems, plus around 400sqm of shedding with three-phase power.

security.

Despite its peaceful setting, the property is just 3.5km from Glass House Mountains township, 10 minutes to the Bruce Highway, 35 minutes to Maroochydore and 45 minutes to Brisbane

Currently operating as a spray-free horticultural enterprise producing ginger, the property also has a history of passionfruit, chokos and other crops. Extensive infrastructure

Whether retained as a working farm or transformed into an equine property, grazing enterprise or private lifestyle estate (subject to approvals), Tibro Station offers exceptional flexibility and water

171 Barrs Road, Glass House Mountains is offered for sale by Expressions of Interest, closing 4pm, Wednesday 19 August 2026 (if not sold prior) with proceeds directed to charitable purposes, Tibro Station now invites its next custodian to secure a landmark Glass House Mountains holding, one that may be remembered most by those who let it pass.

For more information, contact Jason Cleary, a Sunshine Coast Hinterland specialist with more than 25 years of local real estate experience on 0402 073 661.

WINTER REAL ESTATE & HOME IMPROVEMENT FEATURE

Classic Queenslander inspires Kilcoy Country Club

By GemLife Kilcoy Greens

Surf Life Saving prize home up for sale

By Danielle Young Property

WELCOME to 10 Kingfisher Crescent, Palmview - a residence that was selected as the Surf Life Saving Prize Home, recognised for its exceptional design, luxurious.

Positioned on an expansive 3,706m² parcel within the prestigious Palmview Forest estate, this remarkable home offers approximately 399m² of thoughtfully designed living, where every space has been created to embrace comfort, connection and effortless entertaining. Inside, soaring ceilings, light-filled interiors and seamless indoor-outdoor living create a home that feels both sophisticated and welcoming. The designer kitchen, complete with an impressive butler’s pantry, forms the heart of the home and flows

effortlessly to the spacious living and entertaining areas. The luxurious master retreat provides a peaceful sanctuary, with three additional oversized bedrooms. Multiple living zones offer flexibility for growing families, entertaining, or simply finding your own quiet place to unwind. Step outside and discover your own private resort. The sparkling infinityedge pool overlooks beautifully landscaped grounds, creating the perfect backdrop for summer afternoons, family celebrations or relaxed evenings under the stars. Whether it’s children playing on the expansive lawns, hosting friends around the outdoor entertaining area or simply enjoying the peace and quiet, this property offers a lifestyle many dream of but few experience.

CONSTRUCTION is about to begin on GemLife Kilcoy’s new Country Club, inspired by the timeless appeal of the classic Queenslander design.

Taking its cues from the natural beauty of the Somerset region, the resort facility has been designed to feel as though it has always belonged to the landscape. Deep verandahs, soaring rooflines and a carefully considered palette of timber, stone and metal create a contemporary interpretation of country architecture that embraces the climate and celebrates its surroundings.

GemLife General Manager of Architecture and Design Phillip Nielsen said every design decision began with the local landscape and climate.

“It’s an approach that feels unmistakably Queensland,” he said. “It’s architecture that works with the environment rather than against it.”

That design philosophy continues throughout the building. Spacious lounges spill onto wide verandahs, landscaped breezeways encourage

chance conversations, and a grand ballroom framed by exposed timber trusses creates an impressive setting for celebrations and community events. Nearby, quieter spaces including a library and creative arts studio offer places to unwind, learn or simply enjoy a slower pace.

Wellbeing has also been thoughtfully integrated into the design, with a gym, magnesium-infused pool, sauna and steam room connected by beautifully landscaped outdoor spaces that make the journey between destinations just

as enjoyable as the facilities themselves.

Natural materials reinforce the building’s connection to place.

Spotted Gum timber brings warmth throughout the interiors, while Italian porphyry cobblestones, native planting and Zincalume detailing provide a contemporary interpretation of traditional Queensland country architecture.

“At the GemLife Kilcoy Greens Country Club, every space has been designed to encourage connection, celebrate the landscape and

make everyday moments more enjoyable,” Phillip said.

With construction about to begin, visitors can experience the quality and design philosophy behind GemLife Kilcoy Greens at the community’s first Display Homes Open Day on Tuesday, 4 August.

Step inside two stunning homes, discover the quality finishes and spacious layouts, and see firsthand why so many people are choosing the GemLife lifestyle. Register today: www.gemlife.com.au/ gkgopen

WINTER REAL ESTATE & HOME IMPROVEMENT FEATURE

CASSI Nuske has sold homes across the Glass House Mountains hinterland during booms, corrections and everything in between. The part of the job that hasn’t changed, however, is far simpler than any market report. It’s knowing the streets, the schools, the drive times, favourite local spots, and the people. The kind of detail that only comes from calling the region home for over 20 years.

Intimate local knowledge means clients have someone to turn to for more than just market advice.

Working alongside Cassi,

Jo Daley keeps sellers and buyers informed with clear, detailed updates rather than vague reassurances. Reviews of the pair regularly highlight the same qualities: open communication, a no-pressure approach and a process that relieves stress, even when the sale itself may not have been straightforward.

Named realestate.com.

au’s top agent for Glass House Mountains, Cassi measures success by one metric: will the experience clients have with the team motivate them to reach out in the future.

That same people-

first mindset carries into McGrath’s Community Giveback Program, through which the team supports local clubs, schools and charities across the hinterland, with a donation made from every sale to community groups that make the region such a rewarding place to live. For homeowners wondering what current headlines mean for their property, Team Cassi Nuske welcomes a call to discuss their real estate needs and talk through the options.

Small steps now, big rewards come Spring

By Matt & Dani - Owners, Coochie

Winter lawn care Guiding you through every season

HydroGreen Glass House Mountains WINTER tricks a lot of us into thinking our lawns can be left alone until the warmer months roll back around. In reality, what you do (or don’t do) for your lawn right now sets the tone for how it bounces back in spring.

Cooler temperatures slow grass growth, but weeds like bindii, clover, and winter grass don’t get the memo, they’re often at their most active this time of year, quietly establishing themselves while your lawn’s defences are down. Left untreated, they’ll be well and truly entrenched by the time spring hits.

Fungal diseases are another sneaky winter visitor, especially with our

Our advice for to homeowners this winter:

keep mowing (just less often and slightly higher), and stay ahead of weeds and disease rather than reacting to them once they’ve taken hold. A well-timed treatment now does far more good than a rescue job in October. We know winter isn’t when most people are thinking about their lawn, but it’s exactly why the lawns that get a bit of attention now are the ones that go from good to genuinely impressive once the warmer weather returns.

If you’re not sure what your lawn needs this time of year, we’re always happy to have a chat. Get in touch. Call Matt 0448 884 208.

QUEENSLAND has emerged as Australia’s strongest property market for the first time, with every major sector recording positive conditions despite a national slowdown.

The state scored 6.6 in the Australian Property Institute’s (API) Q3 2026 Property Market Index, overtaking Western Australia to claim the top position after scoring 7.5 in the previous quarter.

The result was driven by the strength and diversity of Queensland’s property sectors, with residential, industrial, agricultural, retail and office markets all remaining above neutral.

Residential property led the nation with a score of 6.6, followed by industrial at 7.0, agriculture at 5.9, retail at 5.8 and office at 5.7 - the strongest office result recorded nationally.

API Chief Economist Dr Sherman Chan said

Queensland’s performance stood out because no sector had fallen into negative territory. “Every state slowed this quarter, including Queensland. The difference is that nothing in Queensland is below the line,” Dr Chan said.

“It is the only state where residential, office, retail, industrial and agricultural are all in positive territory, and that breadth is exactly what you want to see entering a more uncertain period.”

Dr Chan said population growth and infrastructure investment continued to support the Queensland market, particularly amid ongoing shortages of housing and available land.

Industrial property has also benefited from limited stock and a lack of suitably zoned land, while office and retail markets remain closely tied to business and consumer confidence.

Stay warm this Winter at Duggans

Mitre 10 has winter covered for your Hinterland homes

AS winter continues across the Sunshine Coast Hinterland, there is nothing better than gathering around a warm fire on a chilly evening –and Duggans Mitre 10 in Mooloolah has everything you need to make the most of the cooler months.

From firepits and firewood to heaters and other winter essentials, the local store is helping families stay warm and comfortable without travelling out of town.

New owners Isaac and Nick have continued to expand and transform the business since taking over in November 2024, with a growing range designed to cater for local families, tradies, gardeners and DIY enthusiasts.

While Duggans remains well known for its hardware range, customers can now explore an expanding timber yard and trade supply shed, stocked with everything from sleepers,

posts and framing timber to battens, fibre cement sheeting, gyprock and insulation.

The landscape yard also offers a wide selection of bulk products, including gravel, road base, crusher dust, sand, mulch and premium garden soils, alongside drainage and landscaping essentials.

The store has also added a new paint mixing station, expanded its garden centre and increased its pool supplies range.

For those with backyard chickens, Duggans has plenty of options to keep your flock happy and healthy, including feed, bedding, health treatments, feeders and drinkers.

With local delivery also available, Duggans Mitre 10 is continuing its focus on convenience, value and supporting the local community.

Pop in at 4 Bray Road, Mooloolah Valley to pick up some firewood and a heater to keep you warm this winter.

Bring your home back to life this Winter Warm home, worry-free plumbing

HAS your home lost its sparkle? Over time, dirt, mould and grime can build up on exterior walls, leaving your property looking tired and weathered. A professional house wash is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to refresh your home’s appearance while helping protect paintwork and exterior surfaces from longterm damage.

Adam from Adam’s Pressure Washing specialises in house

hinterland, restoring properties with professional care and attention to detail.

Whether it’s weatherstained walls, mouldcovered driveways, dirty windows or neglected outdoor areas, Adam can have your property looking fresh and inviting again. Every job is tailored to suit the property, delivering outstanding results that last.

Winter is the perfect time to tackle exterior cleaning. The cooler, drier

and preparing your home for the warmer months ahead. Adam says seeing the transformation is what he enjoys most. “It’s more than just cleaning—it’s about restoring pride in your property and creating a cleaner, healthier environment.”

Free, no-obligation quotes are available, with reliable service and quality workmanship every time.

Call Adam’s Pressure Washing on 0437 732 628 and give your home the

WINTER is the time when plumbing problems often make themselves known, from ageing hot water systems and blocked stormwater drains to leaking pipes and emergency repairs.

That’s why the team at NPR Plumbing & Gas is encouraging homeowners across the Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay Region to tackle maintenance before small issues become costly headaches.

Led by experienced plumber Jackson, NPR Plumbing & Gas provides reliable residential, commercial and industrial plumbing and gas services, backed by 24-hour emergency call-outs whenever they’re needed. Whether it’s upgrading a

tired hot water system for those still cold mornings, installing effective stormwater drainage to protect your property through winter rain, or giving a bathroom a stylish refresh, the team delivers quality workmanship on every job.

hot water systems is especially important during winter, with most units

lasting around 12 to 15 years. Reduced hot water, fluctuating temperatures, higher energy bills and poor water pressure can all signal it’s time for a service or replacement.

NPR Plumbing & Gas has built a strong reputation for friendly service, clear communication and attention to detail, with many local customers praising Jackson and his team for exceeding expectations and keeping them informed throughout every project. As the cooler months continue, now is the perfect time to ensure your home’s plumbing is ready for winter. To arrange an on-site quote, contact Jackson and the team at NPR Plumbing & Gas on 0452 392 755.

WINTER REAL ESTATE & HOME IMPROVEMENT FEATURE

Paint it right this Winter

WINTER is one of the best times of year to tackle painting projects, and the team at Paint Place Beerwah is helping local homeowners get the job done right the first time.

For more than 20 years, the award-winning, family-owned business has been providing trusted advice, premium products and friendly service to customers across Beerwah, Glass House Mountains, Peachester and the Hinterland. Owner Anthony Austin brings a lifetime of experience in the paint

industry and, together with his long-standing team, has built a reputation for helping everyone from firsttime DIYers to professional painters.

Cooler, drier winter conditions are ideal for many interior and exterior painting jobs, including walls, fences, decks and home renovations. Anthony says choosing the right paint system is just as important as selecting the perfect colour, particularly in the Sunshine Coast’s harsh climate of strong sun, humidity and changing

weather.

Paint Place Beerwah stocks an extensive range of Australian-owned brands, including Haymes, Concept, Norglass Marine and Luxury Paints, along with computer colour matching and custom-made spray cans for touch-ups, furniture restoration, machinery, automotive projects and DIY jobs.

With expert local advice, quality products and tailored solutions for every budget, Paint Place Beerwah lives by its motto: “Buy Local – Support Local.”

Beat the 2027 smoke alarm deadline

WITH Queensland’s updated smoke alarm legislation taking effect from January 1, 2027, now is the ideal time for homeowners to check whether their property meets the new requirements.

Fred from FCV Solutions - Electrical & Data is encouraging residents not to leave upgrades until the last minute, with affordable smoke alarm installations starting from $99+gst, and discounted pricing available for pensioners.

Whether you’re replacing outdated alarms, installing

a complete new system, or preparing a property for sale or settlement, FCV Solutions can provide expert advice and compliant installations to ensure your home is ready before the deadline.

Fred says regular maintenance is just as important as having the right alarms installed.

“Smoke alarms are prone to dust, cobwebs and insect build-up, which can trigger false alarms or affect their performance. A simple vacuum around the outside of the alarm every so often helps keep them clean and

operating as they should.”

FCV Solutions offers smoke alarm upgrades, replacements, new installations, sale compliance and settlement compliance, helping homeowners, landlords and property sellers meet their legal obligations with confidence.

The business is supported by Voltex Electrical Australia, providing customers with quality products backed by a straightforward sevenyear warranty program designed to support Australian tradies.

With the 2027 deadline fast approaching, now is the perfect opportunity to review your home’s smoke alarms, avoid the lastminute rush and ensure your family is protected with a compliant, reliable system.

For advice or an obligation-free quote, contact Fred at FCV Solutions and get ahead of the new legislation today.

For more information head to www.fire.qld.gov. au/prepare/fire/smokealarms

Trades buck national enrolment downturn

AUSTRALIA’s residential construction industry is defying a national decline in vocational training, with new figures showing strong growth in building trade qualifications as demand for skilled workers continues to rise.

National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) data shows overall VET qualification enrolments fell by more than five per cent in 2025, but Architecture and Building was the only major field of education to record growth, adding almost 14,000 enrolments.

Housing Industry Association (HIA) Executive Director Future Workforce Mike Hermon said the figures highlighted

growing recognition that construction offered secure employment, strong earning potential and long-term career opportunities. “While qualification enrolments are falling across much of the VET sector, construction is moving in the opposite direction,” Mr Hermon said.’

The growth was also reflected in Construction, Plumbing and Services and Electrotechnology qualifications, which recorded strong gains.

Mr Hermon said the increase was encouraging but Australia remained short of the skilled workforce needed to meet its housing targets, with HIA estimating an additional 83,000 tradespeople were required.

He said improving apprenticeship completion rates would be critical, with around half of construction apprentices failing to finish their training. “Getting more people through the front door is great news, but now we have to keep them there,” he said. He called for greater investment in apprenticeships, stronger support for small businesses that train most apprentices, and long-term certainty around skills funding.

“If we’re serious about delivering more homes while also delivering our broader national priorities, we need more skilled workers coming through the front door and more of them completing their training,” he said.

Winter lawns, expert care

WHILE lawns may grow more slowly through winter, it’s the ideal time to keep them healthy and tidy ahead of the busy spring growing season.

Trevor and Chloe Brown from T&C Mowing have built a loyal following across the Sunshine Coast Hinterland by delivering reliable, professional lawn care with friendly local service.

As a family-owned and operated business, they pride themselves on being trustworthy, responsive and committed to getting every job done quickly and to a high standard. Specialising in commercial properties and acreage mowing, T&C Mowing has the equipment to handle jobs of all sizes efficiently, with multiple machines available to tackle everything from large rural blocks to regular maintenance work. Competitive rates are available for ongoing mowing services, making it an affordable option for businesses, acreage owners and residential customers alike.

leaves and keeping grass at the right height helps maintain a healthier lawn, reduces weeds and gives your property the best start when warmer weather returns.

After years of servicing

support of loyal local customers.

Whether you need a one-off tidy-up or ongoing lawn maintenance, T&C Mowing is ready to help keep your property looking its best all year round.

WINTER REAL ESTATE & HOME IMPROVEMENT FEATURE

Jobs for the yard in August Vegetables

pineapples, give them a side dressing of complete fertiliser in late August. They like acid soils, so avoid using lime or dolomite.

• Spray the flowers of your mango tree with a copperbased spray to fight anthracnose disease.

• Plant your new roses now. Bagged and bare-rooted roses are in plentiful supply.

• Fertilise your existing rose bushes by mulching around them with cow manure.

turmeric, galangal and chokos.

• If your peach or nectarine trees had peach-leaf curl last year, they will need to be sprayed with lime sulphur before the buds swell. Once fruit have formed, thin fruit to one peach per node and bag the fruit, to protect from fruit fly.

• Make sure fruit fly traps are in place by late August. Use a mix of types to make sure you have

Plant carrot, lettuce, radish, beetroot, capsicum, celery, cucumber, eggplant, beans, pumpkin, silverbeet, spring onion, choko, squash, sweet potato, tomato, zucchini, broccoli, Asian

IF you’ve been a little on the slack side and have let your veggie garden go, don’t fret … there’s help on the horizon.

Our friends at Forest Heart Eco Nursery in Maleny are running a session on restoring your tired vegetable garden. It’s a one hour practical on rebuilding soil, restoring productivity, and creating a manageable and abundant food garden.

It’s a ticketed event, but they’re only $15 – just go to www.events.humanitix. com/veggie-gardenrestoration and follow the link to set aside your spot for the morning session.

• It’s a good time to fertilise and prune hibiscus so they develop a bushy habit and produce lots of flowers in summer.

• And it’s a good time to lightly fertilise your lawns

• If you have a veggie garden, don’t forget to water it once or twice a week. Although it’s cooler, the drier winter winds will drain the moisture from

• Keep your strawberries fruiting with a fortnightly feed of fish and seaweed solutions.

• Repot any cymbidium orchids that have been in the same pot for a couple of years immediately after they have finished flowering.

• Harvest the last of your winter veggies and dig over the bed, adding compost and organic matter in preparation for summer planting.

• August is a good time to plant perennial food plants such as yacon, asparagus, Jerusalem artichokes, waterchestnuts, ginger,

garden. Mound up soil around potatoes which are already growing.

• Prune any untidy geraniums and use the cuttings to strike new plants to use or give away.

Flowers

Plant marigold, petunia, calendula, bedding begonia, Californian poppy, carnation, chrysanthemum, coleus, dahlia, gaillardia, gazania, gerbera, kangaroo paw, phlox, portulaca, snapdragon, zinnia, amaranthus, salvia and statice.